Building Change

By C Bryan Jones

Our September issue of The Journal takes you to locales both near and far to see how real estate projects, sporting events, technology, and culture are making life better for everyone—whether in the city or the countryside.

MIX IT UP
Though not new, real estate projects that combine commercial, residential, and entertainment are becoming more prominent around the globe. Tokyoites know Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown well, and Japan’s leading developers have many more mixed-use environs either under construction or on the drawing board. But they’re not limiting their efforts to home. Japan is extending its reach to the United States and the United Kingdom. On page 8, we explore some of the most exciting changes coming to Tokyo, London, and New York.

MAKE A MOVE
Here in Tokyo, large-scale mixed-use developments aren’t the only things changing the landscape. One of the city’s best-known cultural mainstays—Tsukiji Fish Market—is set to make a historic move in November. Will it happen? That’s been brought into question with the election of Yuriko Koike as Tokyo’s new governor. But should relocation of the inner market take place as planned, those left behind in the outer market face new challenges as they try to maintain a sense of community. As you’ll learn on page 16, many welcome the opportunity.

BREAK BARRIERS
Although new buildings and facilities are going up across the city, those that remain must evolve with the times. Accessibility is increasingly important, and the government and companies are working to better serve the needs of those with physical challenges. But a little nudge never hurts, and the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are providing impetus. On page 22, new contributor Abigail Leonard talks to athletes, officials, and experts about how the Games are having a positive effect on efforts to address this important issue.

GET SNEAKY
Through our Revision Japan column, we have been exploring areas of the city with great cultural tradition to learn how families and businesses adapt to Tokyo’s evolution. This time a trip to Tabata on page 26 leads us to a family of ninja whose roots go back to the Edo Period. While ninja may not find the same kind of work today as they did 400 years ago, the Musashi Clan has found a way to keep their customs alive, teaching them to Japanese and non-Japanese alike.

FRESHEN UP
Online, the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) website is one of the most important tools for making the most of your membership. On page 39, ACCJ Vice President Jonathan Kushner fills you in on upcoming changes.

There’s even more in this issue, including initiatives in medicine, technology, and business. So with August vacations behind us, read on and enjoy the start of a new season.